5 Questions with Jody - Ann

Jody-Ann Tyson proved that your dream can become a reality when you have a positive mindset and the will to work hard. Her current reality that was once a dream is that she is a recent graduate of Church Teachers’ College, where she obtained a First Class Honours. She is now a passionate educator and YouTuber.

Jody-Ann is a simple woman with big dreams and accomplishments. Her vision now is to be a renowned Broadcast Journalist/TV Host. She is guided by her faith in God and belief that people should always put their best foot forward. Education Jamaica Magazine was again privileged to ask another inspiring young Educator five questions. We hope her responses will push you to work towards achieving your goals.

1. Tell us a little about your educational journey.

Prior to attending Church Teachers’ College, I pursued a full five years at Bishop Gibson High School for Girls. I then went to deCarteret College, where I did lower sixth form. What I learned at Bishop Gibson High has helped form my morals and principles as a young lady - one such principle is my dislike for mediocrity. I believe that whatever you do in life should be well done, and it is important that we put our best foot forward in everything we do. I carried this principle with me throughout my four years of college.

A few months before finishing lower six, my literature teacher shared part of her university journey. She spoke with regret, as she shared that she could have graduated with honours if she had not allowed herself to be influenced by her friends. This shared experience inspired me throughout college.

During college, I did not live on campus, so my main challenge was a lack of internet access at home. This resulted in me staying late at school (sometimes until 8 or 9 pm) to get some work done. I even went to school on Saturdays to use the school’s WiFi. When all schools were closed due to covid, I was worried about having internet access. I resorted to a data plan; that was little or no success. I then had to leave my house and stand on the nearby street, just so the data could connect and I could attend my classes. The struggles were real. However, with God’s guidance and the support of my family, I overcame those struggles.

2. Why did you decide to become an Educator?

I usually hear teachers say that ‘I did not choose to teach, but teaching chose me’; that is my testimony. I had two main career choices during high school - teaching and broadcast journalism. One career day at Bishop Gibson High, we were allowed to dress up in our dream career outfit. When asked what my profession was, I confidently said, “I’m a teacher and a journalist.”

I believe that Jamaica needs more teachers who are role models and mentors - teachers who students can relate to, and not just teachers who merely ‘teach’ content. Becoming a teacher is more than just a routine; it is a lifestyle, and as some people would say, a God-given calling.

3. What is your main source of motivation?

God is my main source of motivation. Knowing that he has so much more for me gives me hope daily, as sometimes I get demotivated, but remembering God’s promises for my life gives me joy and peace. I believe that as Christians, sometimes we forget how magnificent God truly is. I am reminded of his grace, blessings, and favour when I read his word. GOD IS GOOD.

4. Tell us about your youtube channel and the content you share.

My YouTube channel is called ‘College Stratagems.’ Having attended college, I lacked adequate guidance as to what college life entails and how to navigate my academic journey successfully - this was how College Stratagems was created. My channel is centred around five key principles -school, life, fun, faith, and inspiration - principles that I believe college and even high school students need. I focus on topics that I know will be beneficial to college students. Some topics I have covered on my YouTube channel are ‘Time Management,’ finding your God-given purpose, and I am currently doing a series on the work and travel program.

My work and travel program series will end in February 2022, as I seek to give complete guidance to college/university students who seek to do the J1 Summer Work and Travel Program. My videos on this series are candid and unfiltered. My content will also have videos of me working in the United States. There are even a few jokes to lighten the moment - you are guaranteed to laugh and be inspired. So far, topics that I have covered on the J1 Program are:

1. Why do the J1 Program?

2. How to apply for the J1 Program?

3. How to choose your job for the J1 Program?

4. How to pass your J1 embassy interview?

4. As an honour student and recent college graduate, leave one piece of advice with our young readers in college.

Put God first in your studies. Mathew 6:33 (NIV) says, “But seek first the kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” You will never be disappointed when you put God first in your life. Your college journey can be a very lonely and complicated one, but if you put God first, he will guide and protect you - you are sure to be a cut above the rest. And remember, joie de vivre, a French phrase which means the joy of life/living - you are a blessing to the world, so live your life with purpose.

Connect with Jody-Ann here!